From Lost to Loved

When all of your titles, roles and responsibilities are stripped away, who are you? Keep Reading...

​READ
John 13:21-26

KEY VERSE
John 13:23 - One of them, the disciple whom Jesus loved, was reclining next to him.

THINK ABOUT IT
John, brother of James - disciple of Jesus

I was a fisherman... until I met Him. I was a good son and a good Jew... and then I met Him. I found myself attracted to this One - the miracle worker. I became his follower with great hopes that he could be the Messiah.

We spent three years together - Jesus, me and our other friends. I learned how to follow and how to preach. It seemed like we were really building momentum when it all came crashing down. The guards came into the garden. They took Jesus, and we all ran. Matthew 26:56

I deserted Jesus. I know Peter often gets the blame as the "one who denied Jesus." But the truth is - I ran from him.. acted like I didn't know him. I felt so lost.

Then Jesus rose from the dead. He proved he was the Messiah. He came to us - his disloyal friends and made breakfast on the beach for us. The love and forgiveness he showed was unbelievable.

Now years later, as I write these words from the Island of Patmos where I have been exiled, I realize that to Jesus I was not just a follower. I was loved. I was not just his disciple (loyal or disloyal). I was loved. Here, exiled on the island of Patmos, I am not lost. I am loved. For I am the one that Jesus loved.

PRAY
Dear Jesus, You have stamped Your words of love on my life. You have proven to me a thousand times over that I am the one You love. Thank You for the cross. In Your precious name, Amen.